FREEISMYLIFE June 2016 Calendar - Don't you just love FREE?
Comerica Park will be the site of our ninth annual Shred Day, presented by Comerica Bank, Iron Mountain Incorporated and Re-Source Partners. Shred Day is a FREE document shredding and recycling event designed to raise awareness of identity theft protection and recycling.
Bring a suggested donation of non-perishable food and help support the Gleaners Community Food Bank of Southeastern Michigan, too!
This one-day, free public service event will take place on Saturday, June 11, 2016, from 8am to 1pm in the parking lot of Comerica Park, 2100 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201. We'll securely destroy and recycle any amount of your personal or business paper documents. This year we'll also accept small electronics items for recycling.
Help protect your identity, help the environment and help support Gleaners. See the below FAQs for a list of the types of documents you should shred or keep, small electronics you can recycle, a list of prohibited items and more information about the event. We look forward to helping you do some financial cleaning at Shred Day!
You may bring any amount of paper documents to be securely destroyed. You are not required to remove small staples, paper clips, rubber bands and/or small fasteners. We'll also accept computer systems and accessories, audio/video equipment and office equipment. Please find a list of accepted small electronics and prohibited items below.
How does Iron Mountain recycle my shredded documents?
After Iron Mountain securely destroys your paper documents, the processed materials are then transported to paper mills to be turned into pulp for recycled paper. This destruction process greatly reduces pollution, preserves landfill space and saves trees, water and even oil resources.
Where can I drop off my documents on June 11th?
Comerica Park, 2100 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, Michigan 48201 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Can I drop off my paper documents at other Comerica Bank locations before the event or on the day of the event?
Comerica employees are not able to accept documents for shredding from customers or other members of the public. Please attend Shred Day to have your sensitive paper documents destroyed for free on Saturday, June 11.
Will my documents be destroyed on-site while I wait?
While we'll make every effort to destroy the majority of the collected documents onsite with "Mobile Shredding Units," or live shredding trucks, some of the paper documents will be loaded into secure trucks and transported to Iron Mountain's nearby shredding plant for secure destruction and recycling. The goal of the event is to process our guests efficiently and for safety reasons, we encourage all guests to remain in their vehicles.
Is there a limit to the amount of paper documents I can bring?
Due to the amount of shredding resources we'll have onsite, there is no box or bag limit at Shred Day this year. Therefore, feel free to bring us all your sensitive paper documents for free, secure destruction.
Can you take my cardboard boxes, too?
We cannot accept cardboard boxes. If you bring your paper documents in a cardboard box, the Iron Mountain representative will hand the box back to you after emptying its contents into the secure shredding bins.
Will representatives from the Gleaners Community Food Bank of Southeastern Michigan be at the event to take my donation?
Yes, volunteers from the Gleaners Community Food Bank will be present to collect any donations from our guests.
Do I have to donate food in order to attend Shred Day?
The series continues on Tuesday, June 21st with BALANCE.
June 3rd is National Doughnut Day and Krispy Kreme is giving away FREE doughnuts to celebrate.
To get ANY Krispy Kreme Doughnut FREE for National Doughnut Day, go to the Krispy Kreme Facebook page and click on the FREE doughnut on 6/3 offer.
You will be sent a confirmation email to the email account linked to your Facebook account. On June 3rd, show the email at participating Krispy Kreme locations to claim your free doughnut.
Offer good for one free doughnut of choice in the US and Canada, valid only on 6/3/2016 at participating locations. Excludes Puerto Rico & CT.
Show Dad who's #1! Join our hands-on workshop and build a trophy-shaped cell phone holder. Once the project is built, your child can paint it and decorate with stickers that show dad he's #1.
The coupon must be redeemed by Sunday, June 12, 2016. The download will be available on Friday, May 27, 2016 between the hours of 12am and 11:59pm PT. This coupon is for Kroger rewards members.
Gear up for summer and celebrate the changing of the seasons with great savings at The Salvation Army Southeast Michigan Adult Rehabilitation Center's annual Memorial Day Sale.
Visit any of the 35 metro Detroit Salvation Army thrift store locations to enjoy 50 percent off clothing on Monday, May 30. Doors will be open at the nonprofit's 33 thrift stores from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at its two dollar stores in Pontiac and Detroit.
In addition to 50 percent savings on clothing, all new mattresses and box springs will be 10 percent off and shoppers will have opportunities to pick up deals on summer essentials, accessories, home goods and other items with bonus sales announced hourly at each store.
Pewabic is seeking a motivated, friendly, self-starter to fill its Head People Person position. Our Head People Person must be able to think creatively, work confidentially, and be a champion for fostering a "great place to work" culture. Position requires strategic thinking, as well as the ability to perform administrative functions including all benefit administration. Please send resume to hr@pewabic.org.
Make-A-Wish Michigan is seeking resumes for the position of Business Intelligence Manager based out of the Brighton Headquarters. The Business Intelligence Manager will be responsible for the organization's databases including assurance of data integrity, data extraction, report customization and analysis. The Manager will provide ongoing training and development to support the staff with RE, FE and other software programs. The Manager will maintain the relationship with the third party IT vendor and maintain the overall IT infrastructure, including the integration of all systems including hardware, software and email systems. The position is full-time and requires a Bachelor's Degree, preferably in Computer Science and Software Engineering, 3-5 years of systems analysis, project management or related experience and must be proficient in database management (experience with RE and FE preferred).
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to hr@michigan.wish.org.
The Professional Learning Coach's role is to work directly with the online professional development, blended learning and iPD teams, supporting online and blended professional learning initiatives. In this role, the coach will act as a change agent by promoting, developing, and helping to implement adult professional learning strategies online and face to face. The coach supports student achievement by providing direct support to administrators, department chairs and teachers. The Professional Learning Coach will provide outreach, professional development and conference presentations for K-12 teachers and administrators in Michigan. The coach will provide group and one-to-one instructional design coaching to teachers as they work to transform their lessons to a blended and/or online learning format.
The Sales Representative is responsible for all sales and user adoption activities, from lead generation through close of sale in the assigned territory. The sales representative also assists the Director of Sales and Marketing in the department effort to meet the annual business goal of expanding our customer base for both divisions and increasing revenue. The sales representative will work with other territory sales representatives, and other MVU marketing and customer service team members for the achievement of revenue generation, customer satisfaction, increased use of products/services and long-term goals.
The Administrative Assistant provides high-level, day-to-day executive support to the Executive Director of Student Learning Services. This position is a key member of the office support team which promotes consistency in core duties under the administrative guidance of the Office Manager. The position facilitates office services through implementation of administrative systems, procedures, policies and monitoring of executive projects. These responsibilities include administrative support of various levels and are based on prioritized need, requiring the ability to multi-task on a regular basis. The Administrative Assistant will work under the collaborative functional guidance of the Executive Director.
The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum is seeking an experienced nonprofit professional to research, write, and administer grants. The ideal candidate has a track record securing STEaM oriented grants from a variety of sources and is familiar with informal science education. Responsibilities include identification of funding opportunities, proposal writing, budgeting, building and stewarding grantor relationships, and administration of awards from local, regional, state, and national sources. A keen eye for detail is required. Experience proofing and editing development and marketing collateral is a plus.
Bachelor's Degree and three years of experience researching prospects, writing successful grant proposals, budgeting, and grant administration. A master's degree that contributes to writing, research, and communication expertise is preferred. A record of identifying and matching funding sources to internal needs, success in creating concise and compelling proposals, and experience in managing multiple projects is essential. Candidate must have experience developing and managing partnerships with team members, program officers, foundations, higher education institutions, community organizations, businesses, and governmental agencies.
The Accounting (Fiscal) Manager works in a financial team environment to assist the agency meet various financial reporting deadlines and payroll timelines as well as do reconciliation, create and track budgets. Aid and assist in contract management. This position supervises accounting personnel as assigned. Bachelor's degree in accounting is required (CPA Preferred) with 5-7 years experience.
Administrative principles and methods, including program development and implementation.
Principals of accounting, including governmental generally accepted accounting principles, practices and procedures.
Budget preparation, budget control, and financial reporting procedures.
Computer systems and their application to accounting, preferably in a network environment.
Methods and processes for the collection of accounts receivables.
For more detailed information and to apply - visit the Careers tab on our website www.aaa1c.org.
The Girl Engagement Specialist is responsible for implementing both in-school scouting and after school programming within targeted geographic areas and/or school districts.
Perform responsibilities in conjunction with volunteers; provide volunteer supervision, training, guidance, and coaching to support other adult volunteers in ensuring a high quality Girl Scout Leadership Experience.
Provide responsive and high-quality customer service to girls, parents and volunteers.
Ensure that diversity and pluralism are embraced and incorporated at all times.
Facilitate a pre-designed curriculum for several school districts to achieve department goals.
Attend monthly meetings with the Director or designee to review and discuss issues, incidents, curriculum, upcoming events or program expansions.
Ensure timely completion and submission of evaluation forms for grant reporting.
Ensure that all program materials are accessible and available for effective program delivery.
Experience working with youth in a public school setting a plus!
Resumes should be sent to abenitez@gssem.org.
The full-time Grant Writer is responsible for researching, identifying, developing and responding to potential public and private funding sources, writing grant proposals and performing necessary liaison and follow-up activities related to grant-funded projects. The position also provides general support to the fundraising activities of the Flint Cultural Center Corporation and its member institutions, Sloan*Longway and The Whiting.
The Historical Society of Michigan seeks a qualified individual to serve as Features Editor.
As part of the Editorial Committee and under the direction of the Editor in Chief, the Features Editor is responsible for soliciting, acquiring, and editing feature articles for Michigan History and Chronicle magazines and assists with Michigan History for Kids. Duties will include handling queries, solicitation of manuscripts, article acquisition, author communications, copyediting articles and preparing them for publication, and photo acquisition.
To apply please e-mail a cover letter and resume to resume@hsmichigan.org. The position will remain open until filled.
The Old Newsboys' Goodfellow Fund of Detroit, one of the oldest children's charities in Detroit, seeks an experienced Director of Development to lead the organization's fundraising efforts. Responsibilities include conceiving, implementing and monitoring all aspects of the Goodfellows fundraising program including individual and major giving, direct mail, foundation and corporate support. Strategic thinking is critical to the success of this position as is an experienced track record in fundraising (with major gifts experience preferred), as well as the ability to have meaningful conversations with a wide variety of people and translate those into deeper relationships for the Goodfellows. A bachelor's degree and minimum of 5-7 years of experience is a must. Excellent oral and written communication skills are required. Please submit resume via e mail to sarigoodfellows@gmail.com .
Wigs 4 Kids is a local, grassroots nonprofit 501 (c)3 organization that provides wigs & support services to Michigan children experiencing hair loss as a result of illness & treatment at no charge. Since 2003, the organization has provided over 2,500 wigs and services to the children of Michigan and is experiencing an exciting time of growth! Come join a winning team.
We are seeking an Administrative Assistant who will support the CEO in every department (events, marketing, finance, volunteer management, guest service, etc). The Administrative Assistant will help coordinate speaking engagements, events, fundraisers, assist with our annual gala, capital campaign and other program activities. Other responsibilities include processing wig orders for children and representing Wigs 4 Kids in the community at information booths.
Providing tours of the Wigs 4 Kids Wellness Center and managing day-to-day administrative tasks associated with the organization is a key component of this position.
Visit our website, www.wigs4kids.org to learn about the Wigs 4 Kids program and the children we serve.
To apply, please email your resume to maggie@wigs4kids.org. We never hire anyone without having them volunteer first and request that you complete a 4-hour block of time at our Wellness Center to ensure this is a good fit for you and for us. You will be contacted to setup an interview and volunteer opportunity upon receipt of your resume.
This position is available immediately as we are growing and need more help! Some weekends and evenings are required. Starting wage: $10/hour with possible increases based on skill set and performance.
The Executive Director will provide strategic direction and oversight for Detroit Children's Choir and be responsible for meeting overall organizational and fundraising goals. The role will require the incumbent to be a high-energy, experienced, mature leader who has demonstrated skills in building strong, mutually beneficial relationships among our stakeholders. This position also includes mentoring and oversight of a staff and volunteers as well as the establishment of a supportive and collaborative work ethic and environment.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION: The Event Manager is responsible for the performance and success of Walk to End Alzheimer's and mass market events in order to meet the fundraising goals of the Alzheimer's Association-Greater Michigan Chapter. The Event Manager will recruit and oversee volunteers and execute logistics in accordance with the Chapter standards and best practices. The Event Manager position reports to the Event Director.
Bachelor's degree in a related field preferred or equivalent education and work experience.
Experience managing volunteers 2 years of fundraising experience.
Knowledge of fundraising software preferred.
Excellent written, verbal and electronic communication skills.
Actively participate as part of the GMC Development team to ensure effective integration of development events with Chapter priorities.
Executive plan for Walk to End Alzheimer's and Longest Day events to include team captain/walker recruitment and retention; sponsor cultivation and solicitation; promotion and marketing activities; Volunteer and committee management; and all event logistics.
Analyze data, prepare reports and provide information as requested and required.
Direct delivery of sponsorship benefits.
Actively engage in Central Michigan market with businesses, companies and organizations that can participate in the GMC special events.
Assist the Event Director as needed.
The Vice-President of Programs is responsible for all clinical programs, contract compliance, supervision and training of program staff, quality improvement and program funding applications. Provides direction to all programs and coordinates activities to all departments within the Agency in accordance with the mission, goals, policies and decisions established by the Family Care Network' Board of Directors and applicable local, state and federal law and regulations. MSW or closely related degree, Full State Licensure. Minimum of five years supervisory experience. Attractive benefit package. Email resume and letter of interest to: careers@fcninc.org .
The Ann Arbor Art Center is a 108 year-old visual arts organization located in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor. We are currently expanding our staff to include a Campaign Manager. Working with the President/CEO, Board of Directors and Capital Campaign Committee, this position will assume a key leadership role in the management and coordination of The Art Center's $1.7 million capital campaign. Primary responsibilities include building the current annual giving program into an effective campaign structure and leading the organization's effort to identify, cultivate and solicit potential donors.
This position will report to the Executive Director and work closely with other staff members on the administration of the campaign.
To apply: send a resume, cover letter and salary requirements by June 16 to: employment@annarborartcenter.org or by mail to The Ann Arbor Art Center, Attn: President/CEO (Confidential), 117 W. Liberty St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104. EOE. No calls please.
The Mackinac Center seeks a regional director to identify, cultivate and steward current and prospective major donor relationships in support of the Mackinac Center vision and mission. This position requires excellent donor communication skills in person, by phone and in writing; ability to develop and implement a fundraising plan; willingness to travel extensively in Michigan and periodically nationwide; and some experience with databases or data analytics.
The ideal candidate will be committed to free markets and limited government and have an entrepreneurial spirit. A bachelor's degree and three to five years' experience in fundraising or sales, or demonstrated success in an influential role, are preferred. Persuasive communication and listening skills are essential, as is ability to develop and drive projects as a self-starter. Working knowledge of a fundraising database such as Raiser's Edge is a plus, as well as familiarity with Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook. This position offers opportunity to work remotely. The director will report to the Vice President for Advancement and work with a robust and growing development team.
The Mackinac Center is a nonprofit, nonpartisan research and educational institute that advances public policy aligned with free markets and limited government. Headquartered in Midland, Mich., the Center has 34 full-time employees and an annual operating budget of approximately $5 million.
The position provides a competitive salary and benefits. To be considered, please send a resume and cover letter describing your interest to: Patricia Benner, Vice President for Operations, at careers@mackinac.org or fax to 989-631-0964. No telephone calls.
West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC) has been West Michigan's preeminent resource for environmental education and advocacy since 1968. WMEAC is a nonprofit 501C3 organization. Our mission is to inform, engage and nurture an inclusive community acting together to protect natural resources, mitigate climate impacts and build a resilient West Michigan. WMEAC has been awarded a Level One Partner Certification from Partners for a Racism Free Community. WMEAC is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees. WMEAC's service area includes the following West Michigan counties: Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Kent, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo and Ottawa, with primary emphasis on Grand Rapids, Holland, Grand Haven and Muskegon.
Reporting to the Board of Directors, this executive leadership position holds overall strategic and operational responsibilities including development, finance, human resources, marketing, programs, and consistent achievement of WMEAC's mission. Specifically, the position is responsible for driving the organization's local community partnerships, fundraising, communications, achieving and reporting out the accomplishments of the organization's strategic plan goals, managing staff development, supporting the organization's environmental policy positions and providing inspiring leadership that motivates communities to take action to protect the region's natural resources, great places and quality of life.
A Bachelor's Degree is required, Master's Degree preferred. 5-7 years of professional nonprofit administration experience. Proven leadership, coaching and relationship management capabilities to support staff, volunteers and community partners to achieve the organization's mission and goals. Strong fundraising, marketing and public relations experience.
Individuals interested in the position should visit www.wmeac.org/careers and complete the application form.
Acts as the liaison between clinical, residential and finance department; conducts quality and compliance audits for the clinical and residential programs; assists Clinical Director in monitoring and insuring contractual and regulatory compliance.
Please submit application documents to hr@kadimacenter.org or by fax to 248-559-0229.
This major full-time leadership position, reporting to the CEO, is responsible for expanding the Detroit branch office of First Children's Finance and implementing FCF's program expansion plan in Michigan. The position builds community and private sector partnerships with diverse community leaders and secures resources to insure the effectiveness of FCF's services in Michigan, including business training, management assistance, business planning, and financing for child care providers.
Improve FCF's plans for programs, services, and partnerships in Detroit and greater Michigan.
Work with consultants and FCF staff to meet FCF's contract obligations in Michigan.
Work collaboratively with FCF's President/CEO to create and implement FCF's resource development plan for the Detroit office and FCF's Michigan services. This includes fundraising with foundations, government and corporations, developing proposals, securing contracts, and negotiating with partners.
Bachelor's degree required. Focus in business, urban planning, finance, early education management preferred.
Three years as non-profit Executive Director preferred. Experience working with diverse groups of people required. Significant program management responsibility required including: delivering technical assistance, training, and meeting facilitation with providers, developing and maintaining effective staff and consultant teams, insuring accountability and excellent results.
Planning, meeting facilitation, program development, program and budget management, supervision, and strong resource development and grant writing.
Entrepreneurial, flexible, energetic, enthusiastic with can- do attitude.


Jason Clemens is the Director of Research at the Pacific Research Institute. He also directs the strategic planning and budgeting for the Institute. Prior to joining PRI he held a number of positions at the Canadian-based Fraser Institute over a ten-plus year period, including the director of research quality, resident scholar in fiscal studies, and the director of strategic planning and budgeting. He has an Honors Bachelors Degree of Commerce and a Masters' Degree in Business Administration from the University of Windsor as well as a Post Baccalaureate Degree in Economics from Simon Fraser University. He has published over 50 major studies on a wide range of topics, including taxation, government spending, labour market regulation, banking, welfare reform, productivity, entrepreneurship, public choice economics, and economic prosperity. He has published over 200 shorter articles, which have appeared in such newspapers as The Wall Street Journal, Investors Business Daily, The National Post, The Globe & Mail, and all major daily papers in Canada. Mr. Clemens has been a guest on numerous radio and television programs across the country. He has appeared before committees of both the House of Commons and the Senate (Canada) as an expert witness. In 2006, he received the prestigious Canada's Top 40 Under 40 award presented by Caldwell Partners as well as an Odyssey Award from the University of Windsor.
Is All "Fair" With the Obama Agenda?


A recliner suite to fit your lifestyle. The Porter Recliner Suite is big on features and comfort! The 3 seater has 2 end recliners and the 2 seater recliner also has 2 reclining ends, meaning there is plenty of room for the whole family.
Upholstered in Luxe Rhino Suede fabric with contrast stitching the suite is not only comfortable but stylish looking. Boasting excellent head and lumber support, elegant soft pillow arms and manual a recliner function.


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Eliza Crook – Bay Minette, AL
May 4, 2016 | General, Your Co-op, Your Community
To Eliza Crook there are few things more important than family. If there's anyone who would know, it's her – a mother of 10 who also opened her home to families in her neighborhood.
Crook was born in Lucedale, Mississippi in 1926. The town, which sits in George County, boasts a population of around 3,000 today, but in the 1920s only about 700 people called it home, including Crook and her six brothers and three sisters. Her father retired from a shipyard in Pascagoula and spent his days farming. Crook's mother worked full time cleaning, cooking and raising 10 children.
Crook and her siblings helped their parents with farming as well as house work until they each went their separate ways. Some of her brothers followed in her father's footsteps and went to work for the shipyard while others joined the army. Her sisters went on to become teachers while starting families of their own.
Eliza Crook met and married her late husband Sammy in Lucedale when she was 21. In 1950 the couple moved to Baldwin County. Like her parents, Crook had 10 children of her own. "Along with raising my 10 babies, I raised all the neighborhood kids too," Crook says. She laughs when she recalls her house full of children, some of whom wouldn't leave to go home until 11 o'clock at night.
Today, Crook's already large family has done quite a bit of expanding. She has 52 grandchildren as well as 32 great-grandchildren.
Crook worked many jobs in her lifetime. From being a cafeteria lady in Mississippi to working at Dr. Brown's Clinic in Bay Minette, her years in the work force added up quickly. Today Crook is retired and says she does not miss the old days.
She travels "into town" on a weekly basis with one of her sons, and every now and then she will bake, clean house and plant flowers. However, her favorite hobby is kicking back and watching soap operas, which she refers to as "her stories." After so many years of working and raising a family, few people would dispute she's earned that relaxation time.
Posted in General, Your Co-op, Your Community
Cooperatives and a culture of safety
Baldwin EMC Recognized by CS Week for Advanced Metering, Load Management Projects

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


St. Joseph High School is hoping to attract more students who play more than one sport in the coming year. So says Athletic Director Kevin Guzzo, who gave his annual athletics report to the board of education this week. He said the sports picture has looked good this past year.
Those three-sport students are known as Iron Bears by the district, and Guzzo said they get special recognition, including a shirt advertising their esteemed status. Guzzo also highlighted some accomplishments of Bear athletes in the past year, including strong finishes by the golf and tennis teams.


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Chapter 15: A Matter of Time
Mal J'hat's seethed as he sat uncomfortably in the doctor's quarters, trying not to squirm as M'jek stitched up a few deep cuts he'd received during the brawl in the arena.
"The human doctor will pay for this, M'jek. His end will be painful. Slow and very, very painful," the tyrant vowed. Mal J'hat went into great detail of what he had planned for the doctor, details that made even a man like M'jek, used to seeing blood and gore, a little queasy.
The doctor mulled over the situation in his mind. His leader's wishes were certainly not a surprise, but he did not wish to see the human doctor suffer. He would not wish what Mal J'hat had planned on even his worst enemy.
M'jek's mind raced as he sought a way to dissuade Mal J'hat from his plans. "Great leader, as you probably already know, the prison population has grown considerably and they far outnumber our guards. It is no small feat to keep them all in line, as you no doubt saw in the arena. It took our guards hours to recapture and subdue all the free prisoners. The human doctor, before you forbade it, was tending to the illnesses of the prisoners, a task I respectfully remind you that you should have allowed me to undertake." M'jek paused to gauge Mal J'hat's reaction and finding it neutral, continued. "As a result, the prisoners grew quite fond and appreciative of this human. If you execute him in such a manner as you wish, it may cause rioting, which we may not be able to control. I would recommend not executing him at all, but given the seriousness of his offense, I understand your wishes."
Mal J'hat's face grew dark and the doctor quickly moved to calm the growing storm he knew was brewing, "Mal J'hat, I tell you this only to protect your interests. It would not sit well with your father if he discovered you could not control your prisoners. Please, there is another way." M'jek went to nearby cabinet and withdrew two vials. He returned and showed them to Mal J'hat. "The combination of these two drugs will cause a quick and painless death. I believe that this show of 'mercy' will sit better in the eyes of the prisoners."
M'jek stood silently, awaiting a verdict from his leader. Mal J'hat thoughtfully stroked his chin for a moment, then spoke. "It is not what I want, I believe the human deserves worse. However, my father already has much to hold against me. I cannot risk adding more fuel to the fire with a riot. I will agree to your suggestion. You will perform the execution." Without so much as a goodbye, Mal J'hat turned and left the doctor's quarters.
Smith limped painfully into his cell. The adrenaline having long worn off, his body was starting to stiffen up and there was hardly a spot on him that didn't ache, sting, or burn. West, who had offered the doctor a shoulder for support on their trip back through the stockade, carefully lowered Smith onto his bed. Mrs. Robinson attempted to deliver more pain relievers to the doctor, but the guards blocked entry to the cell. As soon as the Major left the cell, the forcefield flickered on and the guards left.
The doctor, being the fastidious man he was, wished to clean himself up after rolling around in the dirty, dusty arena for the last hour or so, but found the act of moving too uncomfortable. Instead, he laid as still as possible and hoped he could get some sleep despite the constant pain.
The Robinsons and Major West cleaned themselves up a bit with cloths dampened with a little of their water rations. They didn't spend much time talking before getting ready for bed, as the day's events had completely exhausted them. They'd have plenty of time to talk the following day.
Early the next morning, T'pat visited Smith in his cell. He had brought a new shirt and offered to take Smith's torn one for mending. Smith was glad for the gesture, but what he really wanted was a hot bath. He doffed his tattered tunic carefully and handed it to T'pat. He managed to get to his feet with more than a few groans and made his way to the sink.
Smith assessed the wound to his chest. Fortunately, it wasn't deep enough to need stitches and in some places was little more than a scratch. He had been lucky. Gingerly, he cleaned the wound, often inhaling sharply through his teeth as it stung with irritation. He cleaned the rest of himself the best he could and donned the fresh shirt. He wet his fingers and ran them through his unkempt hair and then stroked a hand over his stubbled cheeks. What he wouldn't give for a razor right now. Just a few days ago, he'd at least had perks from his visits with M'jek: a chance to shave, a proper meal now and then, and the occasional shower. It was the little things that made the whole experience bearable. He sighed heavily and hobbled back to his bed, where he plopped down with an audible groan. He didn't bother to complain, as there was no one near enough to hear it.
There was nothing to do now but wait. Today and tomorrow were all Smith had left. As he stared out of his cell at his companions, he was reminded of that fateful day several years ago that had thrown him together with these people in an adventure he could hardly have imagined had he tried. At the time, they meant nothing to him and he wanted desperately to leave them and return home to Earth. He thought very little of throwing them to the wolves to get what he wanted. Now, they meant everything to him, they were all he had, and he wanted desperately to be with them again on the Jupiter 2. Smith was a gambling man and he'd studied the odds. Earth was becoming more of a longshot, while the Robinsons were a sure thing.
Smith watched the children as they ate their morning rations. He'd never had children of his own, but had he been given the opportunity, he would've wanted them to be as bright, articulate, and compassionate as Will and Penny. He'd watched them grow and mature over the years and he wondered what they would be like as adults. The only thing that saddened him more than the thought of not being around to see them grow up was the thought that they might never get the chance to.
The doctor's thoughts shifted to the eldest of the Robinson children, Judy, his stalwart defender. He had often manipulated her in order to bring her to his defense and he occasionally had pangs of remorse for doing so. However, he suspected she knew exactly what he was up to and defended him anyway. For that, he was truly grateful.
The family was very subdued that morning. The failure of their escape attempt the night before had dashed many of their hopes. Freedom for them, and life for Doctor Smith, had been in their grasp and then torn away suddenly. It was hard to accept.
The Professor stole a glance at Smith and it was evident the experience in the stockade had taken a toll on the man. The doctor sat with his shoulders uncharacteristically slumped, with what seemed like the weight of at least ten extra years atop them.
As much as the doctor irritated him, and occasionally downright angered him sometimes, the Professor had grown accustomed to Smith and even come to like him in some respects. His family had readily accepted him as one of their own, not despite the doctor's many faults, but because of them. They understood his weaknesses and human frailties. They knew Smith needed them, though he was hesitant to admit it. They could never turn away someone in need and Smith was a prime example.
Since the family had no black sheep to speak of, they had adopted one. Smith had started out cold and calculating, distant and deceitful, but over the years he'd warmed to them, finding his place in the family, and settling in. He was no angel and probably never would be, despite their good influence, but he had somehow won their hearts, especially those of the children. The Professor couldn't fathom how his loss would affect the family, but he knew their pain would be his pain.
Mrs. Robinson was thinking similar thoughts as her husband. The pain her family felt would be hers as well. She had a soft spot for the doctor and it was often at her insistence that John softened his stance against Smith after one of his many misdeeds. Smith seemed to have a soft spot for her as well, frequently flattering her and heaping praise upon her culinary talents. He was sincere, most of the time, and not sycophantic. He respected her and he showed it by calling her "Mrs. Robinson", a formality she enjoyed because it reminded her of her most favorite roles of wife and mother.
She had once said that Doctor Smith was an injustice collector and insisted that injustice collectors could be quite nice when they weren't collecting. Smith hadn't been collecting since he'd arrived there, despite the fact that injustice was being heaped upon him. Instead, he was looking out for her family in whatever way he could. That endeared him to her more than any praise or flattery ever would.
She studied the man as he sat isolated in his cell. He had come a long way since he had been trapped along for their ride. He was not the same man he was in the beginning. She smiled as she thought of the positive influence her family had had on the doctor over the years. He had softened a bit, he had built relationships with them, he had even set aside his constant quest to find a way back to Earth. She mentally laughed at the fact that despite all that, the man still insisted on being a contrarian after all these years. He still found ways to wiggle out of work. He still thoroughly enjoyed antagonizing Major West, though, perhaps, his barbs weren't nearly as sharp as they used to be.
Smith possessed a singularly witty and quirky mind that she found to be endlessly entertaining. He was the spice that livened up the dull and monotonous routine of space travel and survival. She wondered what life would have been like without him along for the ride and she found herself already missing him.
With several grunts and groans, Smith managed to stand up. He stretched his aching muscles and groaned some more. He didn't mind the pain so much, as it reminded him he had survived the arena. Granted, it only gave him two more days, but he'd take what he could get.
Seeing the doctor on his feet, Major West approached. "How are you feeling, Smith?"
It was rare for the Major to express any concern for the doctor's welfare. In a way, it touched Smith just to hear the words. But, where the Major was concerned, he just couldn't help himself. The doctor was feeling ornery enough that if the opportunity presented itself, he'd throw a barb or two the Major's way.
As hungry as he was, Smith couldn't help but throw out a culinary metaphor, "Like a goose that's just been made into Pâté de Foie Gras, Major."
West chuckled at the comparison. "You know, you really handled yourself in the arena yesterday."
Smith rubbed the small lump at the back of his head and an idea formed in his mind. He had no good reason to deny his accomplishments to the Major, since his end was so near, but old habits die hard. He knew the Major was fishing for something… something to skewer him with. So, he prepared his counteroffensive. "Apparently," came Smith's reply, "as I'm still here. I wish I could remember what happened."
West eyed Smith suspiciously. "You mean, you don't remember?"
"I remember I challenged Mal J'hat and he answered with a sucker punch," Smith rubbed his jaw with the memory. "He charged me, tackling me to the ground. I must have struck my head pretty hard on the ground, Major, because everything after that is quite hazy." He turned his head to show West the lump on his head. West barely bothered to look, as he was quite certain the doctor was faking it.
West recalled several of Smith's more competent maneuvers in the arena, which Smith denied remembering.
"Major, if I were in my right mind, do you think I'd even consider doing THAT? I'd just as soon run away."
He had a point, West had to concede. His suspicion started to melt, but he couldn't give up just yet. He complimented Smith on his right cross, to which Smith replied, displaying his bruised knuckles, "So, that's how this happened…"
West started to question Smith again, but was distracted by the female figure that strolled into view. Smith followed the Major's gaze and a grin lit up his face at the sight of Kress.
"Am I interrupting anything?" she asked.
"Major West here was about to ask me a question," Smith prompted. He saw the look on the Major's face and knew their conversation was over, but couldn't help himself.
"Uh, what? Oh, um, no. Are you, uh… here to see Smith?" West asked.
"I just came to let you humans know, everyone has heard about your escape attempt. Those who were in the arena told others how valiantly all of you humans fought. It has inspired many. They also told of how taxed the Asmani resources were during the riot. We may have the numbers to overtake them if we plan wisely. Many more prisoners have pledged to help you, should you make another attempt," Kress said. "We are all wishing you well."
West smiled. "Please thank them for us."
"Yes," Smith added with a melancholy smile. "The Robinsons will need all the help they can get."
Kress realized the doctor would not benefit from the offer of help and it distressed her. She moved toward the forcefield and her hand moved instinctively to touch Smith's face in a gesture of comfort, but caught herself before she was shocked. She locked eyes with Smith and saw pain and fear in them. She wished there was something she could do for him.
Shouts alerted them to the approach of Asmani. Guards arrived quickly and cleared Kress and the Major from the front of Smith's cell. Kress left completely, not wanting to be anywhere near the Asmani. West kept his distance, but stayed close enough to render assistance should Mal J'hat get any ideas.
Mal J'hat grinned wickedly as he approached the doctor. The sight of the smile on his visitor's face irritated Smith to the point of inciting him to do something about it. He would be dead soon. There was nothing more of any consequence his foe could do to him and therefore he had nothing to lose. Mal J'hat had inspired a consuming hate the likes of which the doctor had never felt before. He was going to loose every drop of frustration and anger he held in a torrent against the alien chief. He approached the forcefield slowly, studying his captor.
"What are you doing here?" Smith growled.
"Just making sure you are nice and healthy for your execution," Mal J'hat crowed through his translator.
Smith cocked his head to one side. "That's not why you came here, J'hat," he stated with absolute confidence.
Mal J'hat's brow furrowed, not sure if he was angered more by the doctor's cocky confidence, the fact he had disputed his reasons for being there, or that he had disrespected him by not addressing him by his title.
Smith grinned, knowing he had his adversary's attention. He had seen the alien's mask slip before and behind it he spied a being even more cowardly than himself. "No, you came here to make sure I was still safely contained." Smith held his wrists up, "Why else would you keep these manacles on me when I'm obviously securely contained in here. You are afraid of me, J'hat. If you hadn't had B'tal, if you hadn't had that knife, I would have bested you in the arena, as I bested you in your quarters." Smith saw a look on Mal J'hat's face that seemed to betray the leader's lack of confidence. Smith reveled in the fact he was getting under the tyrant's skin and pushed the alien even harder. "Admit it. You cower at the thought of me outside of this cell, loose to exact whatever revenge I choose. I bet you jump at every unexpected noise, thinking it's me." Smith suppressed a self-satisfied smile as he watched the alien react.
The alien chief scowled and his eyes radiated pure hatred. "I am not afraid of you or any human!" he spat. He glanced behind himself to see the multitude of prisoners milling about. "Or anyone here!" he quickly added.
The doctor raised his hand and gestured with his index finger for Mal J'hat to come closer. The alien, eager to prove his pronouncement, quickly closed the gap between them. He stood nearly nose to nose with the doctor, the forcefield the only barrier between them. Smith's eyes narrowed. He stared Mal J'hat down, unblinking, as his hands slowly wrapped the chains of his shackles taut. In one swift move, Smith shoved the taut chain against the forcefield at neck level to his foe. Blinding sparks flew off the metal links in all directions, with a few electrical arcs licking outwards towards the chief. The maneuver had the desired effect. Mal J'hat jumped backwards, a small cry of surprise escaping his lips.
Smith smiled in satisfaction as he watched the fury build on the chief's face. The brief burst of pain he had to endure was worth seeing the look of terror on Mal J'hat's face. He let the chains between his wrists drop and his features relaxed. "I think my point has been made," he said haughtily. He folded his arms across his chest and leaned against the wall, waiting for Mal J'hat to make the next move.
Major West, who had been watching the exchange from a distance, close enough to see but too far to hear, was somewhat bewildered by Smith's behavior. He had seen the man show courage that reminded him of the early days of their wayward mission, when the doctor was full of false bravado. The difference being that in those days Smith backed down when confronted. This time, he didn't back down. If anything, he grew more confident. Not only that, he was taunting the man who was going to execute him! A wry grin tugged at the Major's lips. The man did have a spine. He just hid it very well, until it was absolutely needed. It was a pity it took a hopeless situation such as this to bring it out. The Major remained captivated, thoroughly entertained by Smith's performance so far. He couldn't help but root for the man to make verbal mincemeat of his captor. Their captor.
"The point," Mal J'hat fumed, "is not if I fear you, though I've made it clear I do not!" He tried to puff himself up, as if his bluster would erase his embarrassing response to Smith's essentially toothless attack. "The point is that you'll be dead soon! None of these little tricks you pull will matter then. You will no longer be a thorn in my side."
Smith was unwilling to concede the fight to that detestable alien, but before he could utter another word, Mal J'hat turned to leave, instructing the rest of his guards to follow with a wave of his hand.
Major West walked over to stand near Smith while the two of them watched Mal J'hat's hasty exit. The doctor sighed heavily. The tone of his voice confirmed his dissatisfaction. "He left too soon. I wasn't done with him yet." Smith's shoulders slumped in discontent.
West chuckled and crossed his arms as he leaned against the wall, mirroring Smith's posture. "That was quite a performance, Smith."
Smith dismissed the comment with a wave. "The man irritates me."
"That was more than just irritation," West observed. "It's not as if you just berated a waiter who brought you the wrong order. You stood eye to eye with the man who strikes fear in just about every prisoner here… and he blinked first." West chuckled.
Smith rolled his eyes. "It doesn't take much bravery to stand up to a coward, Major. And I, of all people, should know cowardice. That dimwitted dictator has never been seriously challenged before. He has others do his dirty work, when he can get away with it. He simply doesn't know how to react to someone who doesn't retreat."
"And you, being the professed coward you are, decided you'd be the one to challenge him?" West asked rhetorically. "It really isn't like you, Smith. What's your game?"
Sighing heavily, the doctor unfolded his arms and stood straight. "It's no game." He could find no good reason to hide his thoughts from his respected sparring partner as he usually did. He knew he had very little time left to talk to him. "I have had plenty of time in this cell," Smith flicked a finger against the forcefield, sending an electronic ripple across its previously placid surface, "to think about a lot of things." Smith crossed his arms again and stared directly into West's eyes. "I am a dead man," he stated solemnly. "There is little you or I can do to change that. I don't think I have to tell you, it scares the hell out of me, Major. However, I can either cower in the corner, which, believe me, I have given great thought to. Or, I can accept the inevitable and at least enjoy a measure of satisfaction tormenting the hell out of that tinhorn tyrant before I go. Given the fact that he attempted to kill Will twice and is wholly responsible for all of us being here, I find it much easier than I ever thought possible to choose the latter option. I'm done with running, Major. I'm just… done."
The doctor's candor and calm acceptance unnerved West. It simply wasn't the Smith he was used to. West hesitantly reached out to touch the forcefield, wondering how the doctor had managed to shove his manacles into it without so much as a flinch of pain. The shock he received elicited a small yelp and an expletive. He looked quizzically at Smith. A mischievous grin tugged at Smith's lips, but he suppressed it. He knew all too well what Major West was thinking. The doctor softly uttered his well-worn phrase, "Oh, the pain, the pain."
"How did you…" West began to ask. He was interrupted by the doctor.
"Simple, Major. Fear, rage, adrenaline, and a strong desire to scare the living shit out of Mal J'hat."
The Major chuckled at the doctor's admission. "I'd like to do more than scare the living shit out of him, Smith."
"You know, Major, it usually irritates me when we agree on something. This is not one of those times."
Major West and the Professor spent some time that afternoon with Kress, who took them around to various prisoners who had pledged help, in order to brainstorm and coordinate some ideas for escape.
When the Major returned he spied the doctor, sitting back against the wall, with something he'd clearly not had in his cell with him earlier.
"Whatcha got there, Smith?" the Major asked.
Smith tried to focus his drunken eyes on the bottle's label. "Sastisi-… Setsisa-… Ssss…" He sat puzzling for a moment, then looked up at the Major. "Booze." He held the bottle to his chest and patted it like a newborn babe.
"Where'd you get it?" West inquired.
"T'pat," Smith answered. "It's good stuff. Excellent vintage. Tuesday, I believe." Smith chuckled.
West stood there, longing to knock back a few stiff belts from the bottle himself. Lord knew he could use them, though not nearly as much as Smith.
Smith seemed to know what was going on in the Major's brain, which wasn't at all unusual, and informed him, "T'pat left you a little present, too. Under your bed. I insisted."
West's eyes lit up and he smiled. He went to his bed and a quick search yielded a bottle, an exact twin to the one Smith held. He jogged back over to Smith and sat down next to him, the forcefield buzzing between them.
"Is it just me or is this thing loouuud?" Smith asked, his hand brushing the electrified field. "Shit!" He shook his shocked hand and nearly toppled the bottle in the process. He panicked as his unsteady hands narrowly avoided spilling the precious liquid all over the cell floor.
The Major laughed at the uncharacteristic expletive. He uncorked the bottle and quickly downed several swallows. "Whew! That's an acquired taste." He looked at the bottle and then to Smith.
"Just wait. It gets better," Smith stated. A small snort escaped him as he mused, "Wish I could say the same about my predicament." He took another swig from his bottle and rested his head back against the wall.
West took a few more swigs, hoping numbness would envelope him soon, as it obviously had the doctor. He wouldn't admit it to anyone, least of all Smith, but the thought of not having him around anymore was tearing him up inside. They rarely saw eye to eye and the doctor frequently drove him crazy, but they understood each other. Smith probably understood him better than anyone. He was the perfect sparring partner to loose his frustrations on, ease his boredom with, and keep him on his toes. And Smith gave as good as he got, a worthy adversary… and a friend.
Smith set his bottle to the side and stood, stumbling a bit, but righting himself. He grinned wickedly and then proceeded to make a series of gestures, some of which required a little more balance than he could muster.
"What are you doing?" West asked before taking several more swallows from his bottle. He set his own bottle down, stood, and found he had to steady himself against the wall. Phew, that stuff works fast. He chuckled.
Smith pointed toward the ceiling in the corner. West could make out a small camera-like device, which no doubt was keeping tabs on their most "dangerous" prisoner. "I'm giving them a piece of my mind, Major."
"Here. I'll translate," Smith laughed. "In Asmani." He repeated the first gesture he had done. "In English." He repeated the rude, but familiar equivalent.
The Major stared wide eyed at the doctor for a second and then burst out laughing. "Where did you learn that?"
"I make it a point, Major, to always broaden my cultural horizons. If there's one thing I've found that's universal among the cultures here, it's obscene gestures and the direction of them toward Mal J'hat behind his back." Smith laughed. "I've had quite a few teachers of late."
Smith turned back to the camera and flashed another gesture. "This one's Utak." Then he flashed the equivalent gesture to translate for the Major's benefit.
West laughed so hard he snorted and stumbled toward the doctor, narrowly avoiding running into the forcefield. He then stood by the doctor's side, looking up at the camera. "Wait, wait. My turn." He flew through a litany of Earth's well known obscene gestures.
"Slow down. I have to translate." Smith's hands and arms gesticulated wildly, translating the Major's movements into Asmani and other alien equivalents. West watched and doubled over in laughter. Some of the alien gestures were quite comical, especially when flashed by a normally quite proper but totally plastered Doctor Smith. Smith started laughing and bent over, hands on his knees. He slowly sat down, breathing heavily from the laughter and the exertion. "Major, I must rest. Telling Mal J'hat what he can do with himself is hard work." Smith threw one more Earth gesture toward the camera before he lay on his back, spread eagle, his body still spasming from laughter.
The Major was already lying on the floor hardly able to breathe from laughing at Smith's performance. Smith and the Major looked at each other, which only sent them into fresh fits of laughter.
The Robinsons, meanwhile, were observing the whole sordid spectacle and finding it hard not to laugh themselves. The Professor and Mrs. Robinson were a bit dismayed at their choice of comic fodder with the children present nearby, but given the circumstances, it somehow appropriately expressed everyone's sentiments. It was much needed comic relief in the middle of one of their darkest hours.
Smith tilted his head to the side to look at West and the two locked eyes again. "It's a good thing I won't need my liver after tomorrow," Smith mused. "Though, you could be in for some trouble, Major."
West laughed and then admitted, "God, I'm gonna miss you."
Their smiles faded as the sobering truth of what tomorrow would bring hit them both. Smith broke eye contact first, staring up at the ceiling, refusing to acknowledge what the Major had just said. That suited the Major just fine, as he stared up at the ceiling above him. A part of him wished he'd never said it. He knew he'd never have said it while sober.
A few awkward moments of silence passed before Smith uttered something in an obviously alien language that sounded like it could be Asmani.
West propped himself up on an elbow and asked, "What's that mean?"
The doctor turned onto his side. He whispered the translation and they started laughing again. Both men crawled back to their bottles and sat next to each other, their backs to the wall.
They nursed the rest of the alien liquor into the wee hours, spending their time talking and laughing raucously. Only a few times did the two end up at odds over their chosen topic of conversation.
One of the major bones of contention that cropped up was Smith's stint in the Air Force. West, in his drunken state, continued to insist, as he had in an earlier conversation, Smith hadn't come by his rank or awards honestly. Smith took one last healthy swig from his bottle, threw his head back, and closed his eyes, imagining his uniform. He pointed with his right index finger to some random spot on the left side of his chest. "You know, I had a good conduct ribbon, right there. I earned that one…"
Before Smith could continue, West interrupted. "You? Good conduct?" He laughed heartily, then drained the rest of the alcohol from his bottle.
"Bah!" Smith exclaimed, too drunk to come up with a witty retort.
Unfazed, the doctor continued pointing randomly to spots on his chest, describing the award and how he'd earned it. The Major listened as Smith droned on and on, unsure if he quite believed what he was hearing, not that he'd ever remember it later. He started to lose interest until Smith mentioned his purple heart. West listened intently to Smith's description of the harrowing adventure that had earned him the medal and his brow furrowed. His drunken mind mulled over the facts as presented and tried to determine if the doctor could actually have done what he described. As his mind pondered, he yawned mightily and heavy eyelids began to droop in response to the rich, baritone timbre of the doctor's voice.
Eventually, their bottles empty and their bodies exhausted, the two of them passed out.
Continue to Chapter 16: It's All In The Execution


2018 saw Esperance three-piece Grand Casual establish themselves as a trio to watch punctuated by their nomination for WAM best regional act of the year. Performance locations as widespread as Leonora on the first WAM Esperance Goldfields tour where perfectly contrasted with their appearance at The Blues at Bridgetown. With momentum building the lads threw themselves into a rigorous Summer of performance playing the Esperance Motor Hotel alongside Roobs and The Washing Line Economy. This raucous sold out evening was quickly followed by a return to the Southwest with stellar shows in the Albany Denmark region. A highlight being a stripped back performance at classy Albany bar 6 degrees. Following two super fun sets at The Nannup Music Festival the lads see a small break in live performance before opening for Noah Dillon at The Pier Hotel on March 30th.
Grand Casuals song writing continues to develop with a blues/rock background embracing elements of hip hop, jazz and soul. Recording lies as a key priority with Grand Casual set to work with Andy Lawson of Debaser studio in late April 2019.


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Theatre of Blood 1973 ****
Everyone's a critic, or at least, that's how it seems to veteran actor Edward Lionheart (Vincent Price) in Douglas Hickox's celebrated slice of Grand Guiginol. Lionheart is angry at the kind of reviews he gets, and decides to take revenge on the Theatre Critics Guild with the aid of his daughter Edwina (Diana Rigg), who seemingly disguises herself as Jeff Lynne from the Electric Light Orchestra to do his bidding. The critics themselves are a wonderfully cast bunch, all destined to be offed in a bloody fashion determined by the works of Shakespeare. Dennis Price, Arthur Lowe, Jack Hawkins, Robert Morley, Harry Andrews and Ian Hendry are amongst the victims, and there's also time for such diversions as a sword-fight on trampolines. The neat idea is something of a precursor of both Paddington 2 and Se7en, although David Fincher probably wouldn't have much time for a comic detective duo of Milo O'Shea and Eric Sykes. Michael J Lewis contributes beautiful, lush music that underscores the melancholy of the conceit; Theatre of Blood is a fun romp that proves that black comedy can work with the right, light touch.
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Click the button below to add the Kung Fu Rider (PS3) to your wish list.
What do office chairs and the Chinese Mafia have in common? Kung Fu Rider. Kung Fu Rider is a fast-paced, arcade-action game for PlayStation 3 that combines a comically off-the-wall in-game movement mechanic with the motion-control technology of the PlayStation Move system to create a gameplay experience not to be missed. Along with addictive fast-paced gameplay, additional features include a two-player co-op mode, 20+ game levels, PlayStation Network support and rankings, multiple ridable office chairs and more.
Toby and his drop-dead gorgeous assistant Karin run a detective agency, but when the mob inexplicably comes calling they become the hunted and have no choice but to hightail it out of trouble on the only means of transportation available, their office chairs. Catapult through the wild, untamed city streets of their megalopolis as you use the PlayStation Move motion controller and PlayStation Eye camera combination to slingshot forward, smash through crowds of pedestrians, lock in air defying combo chains and karate chop your way to safety. Experience the heart pounding rush as you control the duo on a crazy getaway from the mob. Ride your way to safety, grasping onto your PlayStation Move motion controller to stay in control as you steer, jump, dash at breakneck speeds.
Kung Fu Rider utilizes the PlayStation Move motion controller and PlayStation Eye camera peripheral combination (both sold separately)* to place players in the hotseat as they take on the role of the office chair dependent Toby or Karin. Gestures made with the Move motion controller are translated by the PlayStation Eye into everything from kung fu attacks used as defense against pursuing mobsters, to jumps and speed bursts needed to outrun them or manoeuvre and grind through the more than 20 game levels included in the game. The game contains a two-player co-op mode, and along the way players will discover secrets hidden within the city, as well build up online ranking and wrack up trophies.
Equipped with a three axis gyroscope, a three axis accelerometer and terrestrial magnetic field sensor, the PlayStation Move motion controller tracks the precise movements and the angle of the controller, while the PlayStation Eye camera, aimed at the player, allows the PS3 system to detect the absolute position of the controller in 3D space. Together this facilitates the highly sensitive movement tracking and intuitive gameplay that gives the impression that the player is physically within the game. The PlayStation Move motion controller also features the familiar PlayStation controller button orientation, for seamless play from the very first use.


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Sorority shines a blue light on autism
Sisters from Alpha Xi Delta sorority stand in front of Safeway to raise awareness for autism in honor of World Autism Awareness Day on Tuesday. - photo by NANCY ANGEL / The Journal
Nancy Angel
Updated: April 2, 2013, 5:44 p.m.
More than 7,000 landmarks and buildings around the globe were bathed last night in blue in honor of World Autism Awareness Day. For six years, autism organizations around the world have marked the day with fundraising and informational events to raise awareness of the development disorder and the need for research.
Hard at work in raising awareness, are the women of Alpha Xi Delta sorority from California State University, Stanislaus. For the past week, the sisters of Alpha Xi Delta have passed out blue light bulbs to households in the Festival Housing Community, whose family members have been personally affected by autism.
"We handed out these bulbs to show our support and encourage them to keep their blue light bulbs on in honor of World Autism Awareness Day," said public relations chair Joellen Reece.
On Tuesday, dozens of sisters stood in front of Safeway handing out fliers, passing out blue ribbons, and raising money for the organization Autism Speaks.
Until fairly recently, autism was a relatively unknown disorder by the general public. A need for awareness still persists, said the sorority members, despite the fact that the medical community is diagnosing more and more cases of autism spectrum disorder. There is a wide range of conditions across the spectrum, ranging from mild to severe forms of the disorder. It is estimated that one in every 88 children suffer from some form of ASD.
"Through the Alpha Xi Delta's partnership with Autism Speaks, we hope our fundraising and awareness efforts can help put more pieces of the autism puzzle in place," said Reece.


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Boca Magazine Presents
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Home Community Coronavirus: All Palm Beach County Schools Will Close Next Week
Coronavirus: All Palm Beach County Schools Will Close Next Week
James Biagiotti
Spanish River High School (Photo by Christiana Lilly)
The Palm Beach Post is reporting that Palm Beach County Schools are expecting to close all of its campuses next week in response to the ongoing spread of COVID-19.
The decision to close schools will affect more than 190,000 students in Palm Beach County and their families. Campus are expected to be closed next week and the following week, potentially re-opening on March 30.
The move comes after countless closures and cancellations throughout the week in an effort to reduce the spread of the coronavirus, which has become a pandemic. The City of Boca Raton announced yesterday that it has cancelled all meeting and activities through the end of next month.
The School District of Palm Beach County is expected to announce the news in a press conference at 2 p.m. today. The press conference is set to air on WPTV.
Palm Beach County Schools Superintendent Dr. Donald Fennoy announced in the aforementioned press conference that Palm Beach County Schools will close all school campuses effective Monday, March 16. The closure will stay in effect through the end of the previously scheduled spring break, which runs through March 27.
"Over the next two weeks, we will evaluate that timeline and decide if it is in our best interest to extend that date," Fennoy said.
"This is a rapidly evolving situation, and it is important to understand that my first concern is with the health and welfare of our students and our staff. Canceling school is the first step to ensuring that. All the other details will be worked out in a timely fashion."
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Previous articleCoronavirus: City of Boca Raton Cancels or Postpones All Events Until May Due to COVID-19
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James Biagiotti is the web editor at Boca magazine and a native of Boca Raton. He is an avid music fan who spends far too much time listening to, dissecting, and traveling to see his favorite bands. He is also, unfortunately, a devoted Miami Dolphins fan.
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Top Ten Eleven Books I've Read So Far in 2013 ~ Love.Life.Read.
A weekly meme hosted by The Broke and The Bookish, we answer the weekly prompt then visit others who have as well. Come have fun with us, meet new friends and discover new-to-you blogs!
This is a great prompt this week! I love participating in this weekly feature when time permits and this is one of my favorite questions because I can highlight titles that have stood thus far in the first half of the year!
This list has been complied by the ones that immediately jumped into my mind. I used GoodReads Challenge list to help me to compile them into date order. The titles listed below are in order of reading--January through June.
AND since I know that these Top Ten List are so fantastic at helping us find books we want to add to our ever-growing TBR list, I think you should consider signing up for the Summer Lovin' Read-a-Thon I am cohosting!!
We will be giving away a ton of books and two of them appear on my list above!! AND I will be featuring an interview with Jennifer S. Doktorski, debut author of How My Summer Went Up in Flames. How cool is that?! Pop over to Read-a-Thon Central to register today!
I've heard Losing It is really good, so I'm really looking forward to reading it soon. I'm desperate to get my hands on a copy of Grave Mercy as well, I've wanted to read it for over a year but still haven't done so! Great list!
Both of those are so good! Enjoy them once you are able to read them. Happy Reading!
Yay for Altered! I can't wait for the next book, Erased.
And I really have to read Cora Carmack's books, Losing It and Faking It. I've heard such great things about them both.
You should give them a whirl if you like new adult titles. :) Altered was a great book from a debut author. I am looking forward to Erased being published in January. Happy Reading!
Oh great list. I haven't read any of these, but actually own a copy of Grave Mercy. Just need time to read it!
Make time--it was fantastic! Happy Reading!


Andrew continued its bid for a second straight appearance in the state playoffs with a controversial 14-13 victory over Lincoln-Way Friday.
Brian Ganser scored on a 65-yard dash in the first quarter, Duke Cranley sprinted 15 yards for another score in the second, and Joe Regan booted both PATs to give Andrew (6-1, 3-1 in the SICA West) a 14-0 lead.
Chris Hellrung (17 of 30 for 255 yards) led a Lincoln-Way comeback with a 5-yard TD pass to Costa Panagos and a 23-yarder to Daniel Grabrisko, both in the second quarter, as L-W climbed to within 14-13.
L-W`s Scott Hannion attempted a 37-yard field goal with six seconds left, and the controversy ensued when the kick was ruled wide. It had the distance, but was over the uprights and hooking right.
Downers Grove South 25, Hinsdale South 14-Dan McGrath sailed 88 yards to score on the opening kickoff of the second half, and Paul Dirienzo scored once and set up two other TDs with a 79-yard kickoff return and a 57-yard punt return for Downers Grove South (6-1, 3-0 in West Suburban Gold). Willie Patton (11 carries, 117 yards) scored twice, once on a 66-yard run, and Sean Jannenga had 110 yards on 22 rushes for Hinsdale South (3-4, 1-3).
Vocational 20, Hyde Park 14-Jeff Latimore`s 2-yard run in the fourth quarter lifted Chicago Vocational (4-3, 4-0) to a 20-14 Public League Southeast victory over Hyde Park (6-1, 3-1) at Gately Stadium. With his team ahead 14-12 late in the fourth quarter, Vocational`s William Morris blocked a punt, giving CVS the ball at the Hyde Park 9 to set up Latimore`s TD. CVS had gone ahead 14-6 with 7:55 left in the third quarter on Jeffery Jones` 11-yard run and Latimore`s pass to Frank Mobley for the 2-point conversion.
Oak Forest 12, T.F. South 0-Jason Woerheide ran 3 yards for one score and caught a 3-yard TD pass from Klye Zielinski to lead Oak Forest (6-1, 2-1) in the SICA Central. T.F. South is 3-4, 0-3.
Oswego 47, Geneva 0-J. Michels carried 19 times for 100 yards and two TDs and Tom Wreschinsky ran 12 times for 89 yards and two scores for Oswego (6-1, 4-1) in the Little Seven. Geneva is 0-7, 0-5.
Waubonsie 34, Kaneland 6-Joel Edson`s 87-yard run staked Waubonsie Valley (6-1, 4-1) to an early 7-0 lead in the Little Seven. Eric Kreitz scored on a 30-yard return of a blocked punt and kicked four extra points. Kaneland is 3-4, 2-3.
Stevenson 24, Lake Forest 13-Jon Ebert threw for two touchdowns (37-yarder to Brad Lawrenz; 19-yarder to Steve Stigler), Travis Phillips scored on an 80-yard kickoff return and Joel Dant piled up 86 yards on 10 carries as Stevenson (4-3, 4-3) stunned Lake Forest (5-2, 5-2) in the North Suburban.
(4-3) in the North Suburban.
Naperville Central 44, West Chicago 0-Keith Cunningham threw three touchdown passes as Naperville Central (5-2, 3-2) rolled in the Du Page Valley. West Chicago is 1-6, 0-5.
Larkin 27, Streamwood 16-Kendrick Thomas (22 carries, 184 yards) scored on 14-, 30- and 56-yard runs as Larkin (6-1, 4-1) earned a share of first place in the Upstate Eight with Elgin, which lost 9-6 to Lake Park. Jay Domschke had 14 carries for 98 yards for Streamwood (3-3, 2-2).
Highland Park 35, Niles West 21-Niles took a 21-0 lead in the second quarter, but Brian Davis scored three times on a pair of 1-yard plunges and an 11-yard burst to key the rally for Highland Park (5-2, 3-1) in the Central Suburban North.
scored twice to lift Bemen (5-2, 3-0) in the SICA Central.
Bolingbrook 26, Loves Park Harlem 0-Dana Day rushed for 141 yards on 30 carries and scored four times on runs of 2, 1, 1 and 2 yards to carry Bolingbrook (6-1) past winless Loves Park Harlem (0-7).


As technology has become more ubiquitous around events, events too have evolved from short-term affairs to never-ending opportunities to engage participants around a cause, brand or topic.
Traditionally Event and Meeting Planners have looked at the event lifecycle being from the time the doors open to the venue until the last participant leaves the venue.
First and foremost, the general mindset of the planner needs to adapt to thinking about the event or conference as a long-term, ever-evolving entity, and not a one-time occurrence. Planners must take a much larger and global look at their conferences, prospect attendees and stakeholders, and not just see the small percentage of potential participants who can make it to the event. The beauty however is that 90% of the work has already been completed as part of the established planning process.
Second, planners need to make a commitment to wanting to extend the lifecycle and assign someone to manage and monitor the community. It will take some upfront management; however once the community is up and running, participants will continue to enhance it with meaningful and topical conversations around the theme of the event. The community becomes a go to resource for all topics related to the cause, theme or brand the event was about.
Third, planners need to employ integrated or end-to-end online meeting management tools that can facilitate the extension of the lifecycle, easily and cost-effectively for all stakeholders. Eventinterface is one of these solutions.
From a simple perspective, Event and Meeting Planners should think about this right from the beginning of the planning process. As part of the online registration process, invite all of your event stakeholders to connect with each other. This builds value for attendees, speakers, sponsors and exhibitors who can now connect with all participants, weeks, if not months prior to the event. Invite them to share profiles, pitches, social links and even the opportunity to pre-schedule appointments during the event, all within the privacy walls of the event. Invite attendees to start conversations around topics with speakers and other attendees.
Furthermore, events generate an immense amount of data, white papers, PowerPoint presentations, video that is presented at the conference. Make that data available to all registered attendees right before or during the conference and invite conversation around this.
And last but not least, once the conference or event is over, invite all stakeholders who were not able to come to the conference to the engage in the community. Share the data presented at the conference for a fee. On average about 15% of possible attendees come to events, how about engaging the other 85% in the community?
What this means is that a company, organization, brand or cause can now have a private online community around the event where people can have discussions, come back to, connect and continue the conversation. Keep them engaged by offering additional information throughout the year, new findings and discussion points. You can use this community to build excitement for the next event. The people who were not able to join the previous year and experienced the online community will not want to miss out on the event the following year.
Additionally, many events are hosted around topics and causes that have deliverables associated with them. Once participants leave it is challenging to follow-up on these deliverables, by extending the lifecycle online you can now continue to engage and keep on top of the overall outcomes of your event.
Conferences generate a great deal of materials that are shared with attendees. With technologies such as Eventinterface you can now easily create a private online community around your event and share these materials with your attendees but also anyone not able to attend the event for a fee. "At Eventinterface we have seen clients on average generate 30% more event revenue by sharing data online post-event," said Al Wynant, Eventinterface CEO.
Planners too can sell access to sponsors and exhibitors who can now engage with prospects not only at the event, but pre-, during and post-event as the community continues to grow.
1. Change your approach! Think of your event as a never-ending entity. Your event begins when you open registration, and from then on the community keeps on growing through engagement and content distribution. The event doesn't end when the last attendee leaves the building.
2. Find a technology solution such as Eventinterface than can accommodate the whole process easily and cost-effectively. You do not want to confuse the planning team and stakeholders by implementing a suite of tools. Simple and easy to use is the rule.
3. Communities need to be promoted and managed. You will need to assign a person to monitor and engage the community. Once you have kick-started the community, attendees will start creating their own value within the structure of the community, but it needs to be managed and moderated.


text:
Bulletproof Benz: The Mercedes-Maybach S600 Guard
Sniper-resistant armor don't come cheap.
By Will Sabel CourtneyFebruary 23, 2016
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With the arrival of the new Mercedes-Maybach S600 Guard, Mercedes-Benz now offers political figures, wealthy families, and other highly kidnappable individuals the maximum amount of mobile protection that civilian money can buy short of constructing personal Iron Man suits in their garages.
At a glance, the Maybach Guard (as we're calling it for simplicity's sake) looks pretty much identical to the regular Mercedes-Maybach S600. It's a little longer than the regular long-wheelbase S-Class, though not as enormous as the cruise ship-sized S600 Pullman. Mercedes didn't specify what sort of engine is sitting under the hood, but even with a few thousand pounds of heavy armor melded into the car, the "base" Maybach's 523 horsepower, 6.0 liter twin-turbo V-12 should provide enough thrust to hurl the Maybach Guard past any would-be marauders.
But sometimes even the best ex-Special Forces driver can't keep you from being pinned down. That's when the Maybach Guard's true trump card comes into play: VR10 ballistic protection armor, the highest level available outside of the military. To achieve that essentially bulletproof level of protection, Mercedes adds in protective elements early in the car's production; while M-B is understandably cagey about details regarding the Guard's defensive hardware, the company does tell us that the car's undercarriage is armored and that steel panels and other high-strength materials are added in empty spaces throughout the body. What's more, the windows are so heavily secured that they no longer even open—just like on Obama's Beast.
Piece of mind that even bullets can't pierce doesn't come cheap—the Mercedes-Maybach S600 Guard starts at €470,000, or about $518,000—but if you have the type of money that comes with death threats, it's worth it. Besides, the Maybach Guard's VR10 status means it can keep occupants safe against just about every type of soft core bullet, as well as armor-piercing rounds from everything up to a mid-sized sniper rifle. That means:
A 9mm Glock 18? No problem.
A .45 caliber Colt 1911? Piece of cake.
A .44 Magnum Smith & Wesson? No sweat.
A 5.56mm M4 carbine, with or without bacon-wrapped suppressor? Easy-peasy.
A 7.62x39mm AK-47? Even if Rust Cohle is pulling the trigger, you're safe.
An M14 battle rifle? Inside the Maybach Guard, it might as well be a fireworks show.
The New Mercedes-Maybach S600 Pullman Is Absolutely Enormous
For when colossal just isn't big enough.
Can Mercedes-Benz Save the SL Roadster?
The redesigned 2017 SL convertible has just been unveiled at the L.A. Auto Show. But the future of the brand's heritage flagship model remains murky.
Driving a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter to the Best Damn City in America
Or, a mission statement of sorts.
There's a Bulletproof Tesla in the New Brothers Grimsby Trailer
Latest from Sacha Baron Cohen, the man behind Borat and Ali G, stars a vintage Rolls-Royce and secret agent Tesla.
Mercedes-Benz G65 AMG: The Stats They Won't Tell You
What you really want to know about Benz's ultimate Geländewagen.


Sunday 5 March 2017 – Meet 10.00 a.m. at Spooner Row School and Playing Field Car Park (Sat Nav NR18 9JR). There will be a need to park carefully and, perhaps, even double park in case of other use. The walk will be circular, about 4.5 miles and partly on quiet roads and some lovely footpaths.
Sunday 9 April 2017 – Meet 10.00 a.m. at Forncett Village Hall, Low Road, Forncett St Mary (Sat Nav NR16 1JG). The walk will be about 4.5 miles' long and will take the same route as the November 2016 walk but, hopefully, with much better views out across the Tas Valley not obscured by the thick fog which occurred in November!
Sunday 21 May 2017 – Meet 10.00 a.m. at Wreningham Village Hall, Mill Road, Wreningham (Sat Nav NR16 1AN) for a walk over water meadows and along quiet roads to Bracon Ash, returning via part of the Tas Valley Way and then quiet roads.
Nancy and Rick's first parish walk of the New year celebrates the 10th Anniversary of these Parish walks and will start from Ashwellthorpe Village Hall at 10.00 a.m. The walk will not be long or fast- a sociable ramble just over 3 miles – to Long's Wood in Wreningham and back. There will also be the chance to partake of Nancy and Rick's festive refreshment en route.
The next Parish Walk, led by Rick and Nancy, will be on Sunday 30 October 2016 starting from Forncett Village Hall, Low Road, Forncett St Mary (NR16 1JG) at 10.00 a.m. The walk will be about 4.75 miles, using quiet roads and public footpaths (some over water meadows in the Tas Valley) and there are some easy stiles and small inclines on the route. NOTE – there will probably be livestock in the fields.
DON'T FORGET – This month's parish walk will start at 10.00 a.m. this coming Sunday 25 September, from Mulbarton Village Hall car park (off the road at the top of the Common). It will be 4.8 miles in length, heading towards Tasburgh on quiet roads and public footpaths – some of which might just have been cultivated and paths not reinstated.
The breakaway leader approaches behind the Police Car and support vehicle. The adjoining roads were all shut off by police motorcycle outriders – the spectators commented that they did not know Norfolk possessed so many police motorcyclists as there was a constant stream in relay formation closing the roads!
The leader through Ashwellthorpe was an American – Alison Tetrick – who had made a breakaway from the Peleton with about 20kms to go to the finishing line. Here she was about 1min. 45 secs. in front with 6kms to go but from Ashwellthorpe onwards, the Peleton slowly began to catch up and she was over-run by the other cyclists in the last kilometre. At the finish outside Norwich City Hall, she was classified 8th and won the Combativity Award for her brave solo break.
The following entourage of all the support vehicles with many spare bicycles.


Rick Colson is an an alumni of Pepperdine University in Malibu who studied Business with a focus on Advertising. He started his Real Estate career with Laguna Beach, Coldwell Bankers Premiere luxury team 12 years ago.
Rick was named as a Senior Realtor for Lawyers Realty Group after leaving Coldwell Banker and to this day still has an excellent working relationship with this Elite Real Estate Law firm giving him a hand up when helping his current data base of clients. While maintaining that relationship, Rick opened his own Brokerage called Beachside Realty Group which is also based in Laguna Beach. He finds it extremely rewarding bringing his background into play and offering added value to the new clients they take on.
Rick has served as a volunteer for the local Police Department as a Certified Emergency Responder in a effort to give back to the community for over 5 years now. In addition to volunteering, he donates time in helping residents with Real Estate legal troubles leaning on the relationships he built with the Real Estate Attorneys.
Rick studies the market on a daily basis and is on top of the current sales and local market activity. He prides himself as being an expert at valuing properties and gets his clients top dollar for their listings, typically selling homes within 42 and 60 days at 90% of the recommended asking price. Due to his strong negotiation skills, Rick is equally adept at getting great values for the home buyers he works with.
Working in the luxury market brings a whole different game to the business. When considering luxury home sale projects, Rick specializes in target marketing the country's elite High Net Worth Families worth 30 million plus. This brings TOP dollar for the properties he sells and also proves to be a more streamlined process because there are not financial problems to worry about.
Rick's team consist of an Advertising Agency, Drone and Motion Picture video crew, 6 page glossy booklets (selling the beach life style), professional copy writers, Interior Designers, Real Estate Attorneys, Trust Attorneys and Wealth Management firms, Transaction Coordinators, Escrow and Title agents, Professional Models and Personal Assistants.
The team creates and prepares a custom tailored advertising campaign for each property listed including Personal Web Pages, email and direct mail campaigns,Facebook smart ads, Google Adworks (point per click). They, when necessary, will also do the more traditional marketing with the Real Estate Signage, standard MLS listings, High Gloss Brochures and Wine and Cheese invite only parties.
Rick feels it's not the promise of a price that get's homes sold for top dollar but instead a well planned out strategy.
"My goal is to give every client insightful and intelligent advice, get them the best value possible, and serve professionally and with the utmost integrity. If you live in Laguna Beach, Dana Point or Newport Beach or want to move there then let's talk."
Custom online and offline target marketing campaigns utilizing demographic research specific to your home's features to find the most opportune buyers.
How I find the most qualified local, national and international buyer for your property.
Free Home Valuation service to get you the absolute highest price for your home.
"Affluent Buyers in Waiting" list that may already have your perfect buyer.
Proprietary marketing techniques not disclosed to the general public.
Direct marketing approaches to find a luxury home that best fits your needs & budget.
"Secret List of Unlisted Luxury Homes" which includes homes not yet publicly listed but available for sale.
Proprietary approach to finding you the perfect OFF-MARKET property.
Inside tips to buying a home in the affluent market.
Financing options that are available through our preferred lender.
New Construction opportunities including high-level custom builders, buyer incentive programs being offered and previously unavailable premium lots.


text:
Ronnie Ray Bryant (born on October 18, 1975 in Vallejo, California, U.S.), better known by his stage name Baby Bash (formerly Baby Beesh), is an American rapper. Has one brother, and played basketball and football when he was in high school. He attended Hogan high school in Vallejo California. From 2001 to 2003, he performed under the stage name Baby Beesh, after which he changed the last part of the name to Bash.[1] His first album was Tha Smokin' Nephew in 2003, which included the hit singles "Suga Suga" and "Shorty Doowop". In 2005, Super Saucy was released, its lead single being "Baby I'm Back", a collaboration with singer Akon. Cyclone followed in 2007, with its title single featuring T-Pain and its follow-up, "What Is It" featuring Sean Kingston, being hits on the Billboard charts as well.[2]
He has also contributed frequently to other performers' works, including a spot in the song "Obsession (No Es Amor)" by Frankie J in 2005, "Doing Too Much" by Paula DeAnda in 2006, as well as on "Do It Daddy" by Doll-E Girl in 2007.
Chords and Tabs: Baby Bash
Cyclone Acoustic
Cyclone Acoustic Tab
Cyclone Tab
Obsesion
Obsesion Chords
Obsession Si Es Amor
Obsession Si Es Amor Chords
Obsession Si Es Amor Tab
Sexy Eyes
Sexy Eyes Tab
Suga Suga
Suga Suga (ver 2)
Suga Suga (ver 2) Chords
Suga Suga (ver 2) Tab
Suga Suga Chords
Suga Suga Tab
Baby Bash tabs @ 911Tabs


A cautiously optimistic light was thrown on the economic recovery of the Riverside-San Bernardino area at a convocation of local economists, real estate professionals, financial planners, civil engineers, title company representatives and business students titled the Annual Inland Empire Economic Forecast Conference held in Riverside California on November 3, 2011, at the Riverside Convention Center.
Brad Kemp, another economist at Beacon, focused his forecast specifically on California and the Inland Empire in particular, which is of the greatest concern to us. Kemp claimed the state's housing market is healthier than it has been in many years, citing a downward trend in the number of defaults and foreclosures statewide.
Kemp asserted construction of single family residences (SFRs) will pick up in 2012 since California has one of the lowest housing vacancy rates in the nation (5.3% for renters and 2.3% for homeowners), signaling that much of the excess builder's housing inventory (close to 80% by Beacon's estimates) has been cleared out.
The cornerstone of this Economic Forecast Conference remains the same from years previous: patience while demand is building. The California recovery is moving at a slow pace, but the state's economic situation is undoubtedly improving.
first tuesday take: first tuesday agrees with Beacon's overall economic viewpoint but places California's housing market recovery a few years further away. Although we all use the same data, it seems Beacon is reading the tea leaves with a different bias than we are.
California's housing recovery suffers from a simple lack of a true jobs recovery. Momentum will not take hold until around 2016 with 400,000 plus new jobs created here annually. We have only picked up 200,000 additional jobs during the past year through October 2011 and have to recover an additional 1,300,000 before we are back to the December 2007 peak.
Construction starts will also increase at a much slower pace than projected by Beacon. SFR starts will peak at the end of this Lost Decade, fueled primarily by Generation Y (Gen Y) home purchases, with the assistance of home sales and replacement purchases by their belatedly retiring Baby Boomer (Boomer) parents.
Although the pundits at Beacon were quick to declare media coverage of the Lesser Depression to be "nonsense," Thornberg espoused some nonsense of his own. The venerable economist claimed the problem with California housing is that prices are still too high, and then went in the same breath to say that we have yet to experience a true recovery in the housing market due to crippling negative equities.
If prices were to drop, thus stimulating demand and facilitating consumption, equities will diminish in kind, further compounding California's negative equity ills evidenced by the inability to sell and rid owners of their black-hole assets. Beacon only has it half right: negative equity is the reason for stagnation in the housing recovery. However, it is not the cause of the housing market's lingering distress. Rather, it was the inflated prices resulting from the financing excesses allowed to exist since 1982 that brought us into the Millennium Boom.
The next few years will be more of the same. Real estate agents can prepare for future earnings from Gen Y homebuyers by building a public image anchored in honesty through up-front disclosures of property conditions. The post-recovery housing market in the new real estate paradigm emerging from our Lesser Depression will reflect more prudent spending by buyers and a return to fundamentals – a good thing for everyone who is patient. None of this is going to happen quickly.
What can local and state governments and business owners do to create more jobs and spur recovery? Let us know with a comment!
If you lined up 100 economists side by side, that's how many different opinions you would get! Logic and reality is never part of the equation!!! Having been part of the Banking Industry early on in my Financial career, I can attest to the fact that no one outside of the Industry, has a clue about just how much inventory lurks in the shadows. It will take full employment, and many, many years just to get back to what most people perceive as being a normal market. Japan is going on 20yrs now without any signs of getting back to normal. Accepting the same reality for the US, is a foregone conclusion in my opinion. By the way! If overseas investors were funneling TRILLIONS OF DOLLARS into USA realestate, we would be back to normal. How about MILLIONS instead???
Providing advantages to investors now funneling trillions of dollars overseas to return to USA real estate markets could turn the market quickly. California legislators can craft a limited offer to entice investors to soak up the excess inventory. As previously stated the growth of the local real estate market will continue to depend on employment, income, and population.


Yes l've gone and bought a iphone, and yes its FAB, however little things let it down.
Is it possible to delete Multiple Mail in the inbox?
The other silly question is l know it as a 2 mega pixel camera but why cant that be increased through firmware? after all the lens does not have to change.
Silly l know but someone must have the answer.
i always figured "megapixels" was a hardware thing, not software. maybe i'm wrong.
The number of pixels it captures is limited by the image sensor, so firmware wouldn't help.
And the image quality is limited by the lens. No sense in having a high res' image if it's high res' blurry image.
i guess i don't understand the griping about the camera on the iphone. the optics are far better than any other phone i've used. of course i've only had my own limited set of phones, but i've had some pretty expensive smart phones and none of them has taken as good photos as the iphone.


Greetings. I am new to assembly and would sincerely appreciate your assistance.
Thanks in advance for your time and assistance. I am really anxious and hoping to learn what exactly that I was doing wrong.
Re: Greetings. I am new to assembly and would sincerely appreciate your assistance.
Hi, Omar. Don't have much time for elaborated explanations right now. But I modified your code, and preserving it as close as possible to the original, to produce the effect you want. You can probably learn a new thing or two from the modifications.
mov eax, ebx ;send the byte counter back.


Receive 60 free transactions each month, including cash withdrawals, cheques and debit card purchases to name a few. Then simply pay-as-you-go after that, all for NO monthly fee.
These features are included in Student Chequing and are free for up to any 60 transactions. Fees only apply for 61+ transactions in a single month. Your first debit card is included free.